On top of the world
Indian Idol judge Sunidhi Chauhan talks about Enrique Iglesias and why she won’t let a Sunidhi clone on the talent hunt show
Her voice is equally comfortable with a wild oomphy number like Sheila Ki Jawaani as well as a soulful, romantic song called Ishq Sufiyana. That’s Sunidhi Chauhan for you. With an envious 14 Filmfare nominations and three much- coveted statuettes in her pocket to boast of, this Dhoom Machale girl has come a long way over the past one decade. “Yeah, it’s been 16 long years as far as my career in Bollywood music industry is concerned,” she chimes in excitedly.
The year 2011 was specially vital for Sunidhi’s singing career as she made her maiden international foray with the much talked- about collaboration with Spanish pop- icon, Enrique Iglesias on his hugely popular song called Heartbeat. Sunidhi performed in the India Mix, a Hindi version of the number that was later included in the Indian edition of Iglesias’ superhit album — Euphoria. Visibly elated by this delightful turn of events, Sunidhi gushes about the star saying: “Enrique pitches in with a 200 per cent commitment, every time he puts his heart and soul into a project. He is really passionate about his music and this particular collaboration by God’s grace, has turned out really well.”
Serving her second tryst as a judge on the Indian Idol talent hunt, Sunidhi affirms her choice: “We are in search of a unique voice with a touch of an X- factor. It’s amazing to see different kinds of music being spread across the various states of India.”
Sharing the judges’ platform with Anu Malik and Salim Merchant, Sunidhi candidly reveals that she is having a ball out there. “When contestants tell me that I inspire them or that they find a role model in me, then honestly I feel on top of the world,” she says.
However, she reminds that there won’t be any Sunidhi clones on the show. “A budding aspirant should be able to carve out his/ her own identity, isn’t it? Why would anyone try and sound like some- one else? One must sing freely from one’s own heart,” she adds.
With no more solo albums as of now up her sleeve, Sunidhi reasons that it needs a fair amount of time and attention to cater to. “At the moment, I just want to relax and be at peace with myself,” she insists.
When asked about the recent rumours about her marriage to budding musician and composer, Hitesh Sonik, the singer replies with a twinkle in her eyes: “Yes, I am getting married shortly this April.”